THREE thousand patients stood as beneficiaries of the biggest unprecedented “Free Cataract Operation” in Bicol.

Caption: EYE-REPAIR. Congressman Dato Arroyo (center) anxiously watches a cataract operation during a medical mission conducted by his office at Sipocot District Hospital.

        With the theme “Padangat ko Mata Mo, Katarata Mo Tatanggalon Ko: Programang Pangsalud para sa mas mahiwas na oportunidad,” the project was made possible by the office of Camarines Sur First District Congressman Dato Arroyo with the objective of bringing hope to those with eye ailment.

        Rosario, 59, an ordinary housewife from Libmanan, Camarines Sur was anxiously waiting in the morning of February 9, 2008 at the Sipocot District Hospital.

        Because of poverty, she was not able to avail of a cataract operation, enduring the affliction for 10 long years. She was nervously waiting for her name to be called and finally had the chance to see again.

        According to Dr. Frederico Malubay, head of the medical team, the project was considered the first in the history of the province of Bicol.

        According to the studies conducted by the DOJ, seventy percent of those aged 65 years and above are the common targets of this disease.

        Smoke, brought about by pollution and cigarettes, is considered as among the major causes of cataract.

        A dirty and polluted environment are also blamed for the affliction. Thus, efforts are being made to prevent or minimze the spread of the disease, through the coordinated efforts of the barangays.

        Aside from the free cataract operation, 7,000 more patients availed of the medical-dental mission dubbed as “Programang Pangsalud para sa mas Mahiwas na Oportunidad Handog ni Cong. Dato Arroyo.”

        The mission lasted for three days, from February 9 to February 10.

        The medical-dental mission started in October last year had to hurdle difficulties due to the large number of prospective patients to be originally accommodated in Libmanan. To save them from the inconvenience of traveling long distance, three clusters were established to cover the ten municipalities of the district.

        Along with these medical missions, tree planting and core shelter trainings were also undertaken with the collaboration of People’s Government Mobile Action, PAGCOR, PNP, Philippine Army and local officials. A thanksgiving Mass was held at Sipocot District Hospital for the success of the programs,

        Cong Dato Arroyo in an interview stressed that “health is wealth”. He said his Amigo Foundation will continue to provide free medical and dental services to the people of the district. He also hoped to see the early enactment of his Long Term Care Bill that aims to provide medical assistance to senior citizens.